Rodney H. McAllister, 85

SOUTH PARIS — Rodney H. McAllister died Wednesday, March 12, 2014 at the Maine Veterans Home in South Paris.

He was born Feb. 10, 1929 in Lovell, the son of Albert G. and Elna (Ring) McAllister.

He lived in Lovell, Stoneham, Bethel, and Albany growing up. He received his education at Gould Academy. Rodney proudly served his country during the Korean War in the U.S. Army. He married the former Lelia Swan on Aug. 31, 1957. He was most proud of the home he built on the East Bethel Road, where they resided for many years.

Rodney worked for many years at the Ecko Wood Mill in Locke Mills. He was a 50-year member of the Jackson-Silver Post 68 in Locke Mills, and a member of the Bethel Alliance Church.

Family was very important to Uncle Rod; his favorite times were spent at family gatherings, cookouts and holidays.

He is survived by siblings: Earl McAllister of Williston, Fla., Alberta and husband Edward White of Albany, Elna and husband Irving Hale of Denmark; many nieces and nephews; and great-nieces and great-nephews. Rodney was predeceased by his wife Lelia McAllister; a sister in-law Vivian McAllister; and parents Albert and Elna McAllister.

Our heartfelt thanks go to the nurses and staff of the Maine Veterans Home for the wonderful care given to Rodney during his time there. A special thank you to his niece Barbara Hooper, who checked on him daily to brighten his day.

Funeral services will be held at the Bethel Alliance Church. In lieu of flowers donations may be made to Maine Veterans Home, So. Paris, Maine (Music Program for Alzheimer's Unit).